Don't Neglect Me... Sincerely, FLEXIBILITY.
Updated: Jul 24, 2020
Just like many, flexibility comes last to none when we're working out. It isn't mentioned and it's often neglected. The first thing that comes to mind when we hear flexibility is "YOGA." Yoga is widespread and used a lot when we need to improve our level of flexibility. Yoga is a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices that originated from India. In my opinion, Yoga focuses more specifically on mental and spiritual practices, then physical. Those physical practices provide different benefits to the body, such as strength and balance. Even though Yoga does offer particular benefits to the body, it isn't everyone's biggest fan. Flexibility comes in various forms of stretching for all types of fitness levels and should be an essential training that should perform be daily and not ignored.
What is flexibility?
Flexibility is the ability of one's joints to move through a full range of motion (ROM) and its the type of practice that measures the tightness of one's muscles.
Why is flexibility neglected or overlooked?
Too tired to stretch after your actual workout. (Just from experience)
Lack of knowledge of what to do.
The intensity of stretching tight or weak muscles.
Boring
Doesn't reach a person's physical appearance goal
Many don't think it's important
Intimidation or fear (mentally) when attempting to perform
Why flexibility shouldn't be overlooked or neglected?
Lack of flexibility causes lower back and hamstring- muscle pain and weak abdominals.
Flexibility can easily be gain but it can also be lost if reduce frequently.
The practice of flexibility improves posture, balance, and activity performance.
Prevent injuries and reduces body- joint and muscle main.
Provides better joint mobility
Calories are actually burned during flexibility.
Causes muscle tightness
What are the benefits of flexibility?
Greater strength
Freedom of movement
Release Muscle tension
Reduces the chance of another injury and prevents new ones
Improve balance, posture, and strength.
Increases one's daily performance. (e.g low or high- impact workout, all-day sit or physical job routine)
How often should we stretch?
This depends on specific factors.
Age: As people grow old in age, flexibility should be performed at least 3 times a week.
Gender: Females tend to be more flexible than males. Men should stretch more than twice a week. Women should target at least 3 times a week.
Muscle Tightness: Determine your muscle tightness. If you are stretching but feeling pain or can't hold for longer than 5 to 8 seconds, I recommend stretching 3 times a day. If this isn't you but you know your body still needs it, stretch 2x a day.
Injured or Pain: See your physician, they will recommend the best practices for you.
Key Points:
Just like we shouldn't workout cold muscles, it's the same for flexibility. We should stretch a cold muscle. This can cause injury to the body.
Stretch to your level of comfortability.
Flexibility consistency will improve physical daily activities.
God Bless.
Additional Resources:
https://www.acefitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/blog/6646/benefits-of-flexibility/